The best mountainous campgrounds near Socorro, New Mexico

In Socorro, you’ll find over 30 mountain-focused campsites, each offering a front-row seat to rugged ridgelines and high desert vistas. The average spot runs $20 a night, but you can snag a site for as little as $7. Looking for reliable options? Check out Camp Darkmoon (49 reviews), Perry Farms RV Park (41 reviews), or the quirky Thunderbird a frame (27 reviews). Most sites give you access to toilets, showers, and are pet-friendly, so no need to rough it too hard. Days here lean into hiking, fishing, and wildlife-watching—locals know the trails just west of town are prime for spotting mule deer and hawks. Bring layers; temperatures swing fast when the sun drops behind the mountains.

84% (170)

Top-rated campgrounds

Snowy Magdalena Mountains to the west of the RV Park.

In Socorro, you’ll find over 30 mountain-focused campsites, each offering a front-row seat to rugged ridgelines and high desert vistas. The average spot runs $20 a night, but you can snag a site for as little as $7. Looking for reliable options? Check out Camp Darkmoon (49 reviews), Perry Farms RV Park (41 reviews), or the quirky Thunderbird a frame (27 reviews). Most sites give you access to toilets, showers, and are pet-friendly, so no need to rough it too hard. Days here lean into hiking, fishing, and wildlife-watching—locals know the trails just west of town are prime for spotting mule deer and hawks. Bring layers; temperatures swing fast when the sun drops behind the mountains.

84% (170)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Perry Farms RV Park

93%

(54)

7.5mi from Socorro · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · San Antonio, NM

Perry Farms is the home place of the Perry Family, established in 1980, and provided much open space for the children to grow and play. It is located in the northern edges of the Chihuahuan Desert. Native fauna and flora as well as beautiful blue skies, with millions of stars provide peaceful, quiet moments of nature. Learn more about this land: Desert Camp consists of six RV spots with full hookups (electricity-30 and 50 amp, septic, water, and WIFI) and 11 unimproved tent camping areas on family property of Perry Farms. The land has arroyos, mesas, lots of flat areas to car camp, pitch a tent or sleep on the ground under the beautiful, dark New Mexico skies. There are also a few places to hang a hammock. To the west, there are miles and miles to hike, mountain bike, or just enjoy the view of the Magdalena Mountains. Neighbors are quiet and you can choose a spot away from anyone.

2. Camp Darkmoon

100%

(77)

40mi from Socorro · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Belen, NM

CAMPSITE IS CLOSED FOR WINTER - BACK OPEN IN MARCH 💚 Camp Darkmoon is a living example of alternative architecture and the off-grid lifestyle. On site are a handful of earthen structures. Lodging and tent site are available to book. Two acres of sage flatlands. Close to town but even closer to the mountains. Monte Largo Cañon is a short rocky drive away. Perfectly clean air, peaceful atmosphere, and flawless stars at night.

3. Plateau Hame De Colquhoun

100%

(36)

30mi from Socorro · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Bosque, NM

Welcome to Plateau Hame De Colquhoun — or as we call it, Ka-Hoon Tucked away on the edge of the Mesa with sweeping views of the Rio Grande Valley and distant mountain ranges, Ka-Hoon is a unique off-grid destination in the New Mexico desert. Whether you’re seeking solitude or community, a short escape or a longer stay, this is a space where you can just be. **Please read before booking:** The road here is unpaved and a bit bumpy—washboarded with dips—but passable by most vehicles, including low-clearance ones, if you go slow and take your time. We strongly encourage reading our reviews and full description to make sure this adventure fits your comfort level. **What we’re about:** Ka-Hoon is a judgment-free zone built on one simple rule: **respect**. Respect yourself, others, the land, and local laws. That’s it. Our family began this journey in 2020 with the goal of living simply, sustainably, and authentically. We now share this land with others who value connection, nature, and freedom. You can come here to disconnect and find privacy, or to connect with like-minded folks in a laid-back, off-grid community. **What to expect:** * Wide-open skies, breathtaking sunsets, and peaceful mountain views * A developing tiny homestead with rustic, private campsites * Ongoing land projects—this place is a work in progress and full of character * Occasional creative gatherings like open mic nights, bingo, and seasonal events * 420-friendly and inclusive of all lifestyles and backgrounds * Wildlife, including snakes—please be aware and respectful of nature * A simple shower facility (available soon for a small fee per use) Ka-Hoon isn’t fancy—but it’s real, raw, and beautiful. Come as you are. Whether you're passing through or staying awhile, you’re welcome here.

4. Socorro Sunsets

26mi from Socorro · 1 site · RV · Las Nutrias, NM

Welcome to your desert escape. The property is 1 acre and features desert and mountain views. Nearby attractions include: Several Wineries in the town of Belen, just 25 mins away. Must see: The Bosque Del Apache National Wildlife Refuge, The Manzano Mountains State Park, The Rio Salado River, and Salinas Pueblo Missions National Monument.

5. ATV Loft Belen, NM Mountain view

69%

(8)

45mi from Socorro · 1 site · Lodging · Adelino, NM

HELLO **Rustic Loft Retreat with Stunning Mountain and Starry Sky Views** Escape to a secluded haven nestled in the heart of nature, where breathtaking mountain views and starry skies create a picturesque backdrop for your getaway. This rustic loft offers a unique experience for adventurers and nature lovers alike, providing the perfect stop for ATV enthusiasts and those looking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. **Your Off-Grid Adventure Awaits** The loft is designed for those who seek simplicity and a true connection with nature. It features a cozy pull-out leather couch for sleeping, and two XL twin loft beds above accessible via a ladder, making it an ideal spot for a small group or family. With limited amenities, this retreat encourages you to bring your own essentials and embrace the minimalist lifestyle. HEATER propane **Furniture & Beds TABLES (3 wooden folding) CHAIRS (2 red) reminder this is one loft. one pull out leather couch for sleeping and two XL Twin spaces at the top accessible with a ladder. **Essential Features** - **Heating:** Stay warm with a propane heater, perfect for chilly mountain nights. - **Power:** A generator is available, requiring 8 regular gallons of gas for 10 hours of use (rental fee of USD25). The generator must be picked up from storage. -**Electricity and Lights Lights are solar powered or and battery operated. There is a portable power box on site generally along with a 400W inverter for guest to utilize vehicle power. (solar power coming by December 2024) - **Outdoor Or Indoor Setup:** Enjoy meals and relaxation with three wooden folding tables and two red chairs included in your stay. - **Water:** Water is provided. Guests staying longer than a few nights are kindly asked to refill any used gallons locally at the nearby diner water and ice machine. **Outdoor Amenities** - **Outdoor Shower:** An outdoor USB-powered pump shower is available for a refreshing rinse after a day of adventure. Please ensure the pump is charged each night. Generally remains charged for months. There is an alternate shower bag in the shower room also. If the water connected to the shower runs out , guest can open the spigot form the main water supply (a brown 20-30 gallon water bucket) - **Toilet:** The listing features a simple outdoor toilet room-camper-style compost bucket toilet. Please use provided toilet bags and dispose upon departure. Rinse out bucket thoroughly on departure Please take trash with you on departure. **Off-site Amenities For convenience, there are other local spots for bathroom use and cleanup just 10 minutes away, including Conoco Gas (private bathroom), Walmart, "Allsups," and Dollar General. **Activities On and Off the Property** Bring your ATV, fat bike, or car to explore the surrounding land, or rent our ATV locally for an exhilarating ride through the landscape (USD85/hour, USD125/2 hours). The local train in Belen is just 10 minutes away, making it easy to explore nearby attractions. ATV CAN BE PICKED UP LOCALLY: must reserve -Bow & Arrow on Site -Axe Throwing Onsite **Important Arrival Information** Due to the remote location, it’s crucial to receive your door code before 9 PM if you plan to arrive after dark. The area can be challenging to navigate at night, so please contact the host by 9 PM. If you do not receive a response, please call or text the provided cellphone number. Texting is the best way to communicate, but calling is recommended if you have trouble finding the loft. Look for distant lights as a guide. DIRECTIONS Once you arrive at Allsups Convenience Store & Gas station 2348 NM-47 Proceed left on Manzano expwy (with the gas station on your right Drive 1.3miles to the intersection of Del Haan Loop and Manzano Expwy. Make a turn onto the dirt road Del Haan Loop. You should be entering opposite the development/community of houses across the street LA Chamesa (in case you are entering from the south). Proceed about 2.1 miles past 3 right turns and make the 4th right at LA ENTRADA. (There should be four car tires marking the turn) As you Proceed, you will begin to see a red roof in the distance. This is your destination! you can drive with a car on the dirt road leading up to the camper. there are lots of marshes when you are making the final turn. most guests keep their cars on the dirt walk and walk the few steps up to the cabin. we will be adding a pebbled road soon!

6. Thunderbird a frame

100%

(29)

46mi from Socorro · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Manzano, NM

A small A-frame on the Thunderbird Ranch

Stories from the community

Snowy Magdalena Mountains view from the Perry Farms RV Park.

T

Tony

4 days ago

21 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Perry Farms RV Park

Close to Bosque del Apache, 13 miles down same road. Close to restaurants in San Antonio. Sites have full hookups. Owners do sell firewood. 2nd time staying here and would/will stay again. Good jumping off place. We did day soak in Tor C at Riverbend resort about an hour away and visited Elephant Butte. Lots of wild areas and off roading around Socorro which is close by. Decent views of surrounding mountains and Cranes flying by all day long. Great if doing Festival of Cranes at the wildlife refuge.

S

Sakif

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at Plateau Hame De Colquhoun

Melodie and Brent were great hosts! The spot is very peaceful and with some awesome sunset and night sky views!

Cort

2 weeks ago

24 ft campervan

1 night at Perry Farms RV Park

Everything will juhgdf up okcde to fdadvgdrthyyhhguh

Mary

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Perry Farms RV Park

Perfect location for being close to Bosque del Apache. Vannetta is so kind. Wonderful directions and a list of things to do around the area.

s

sang

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Camp Darkmoon

Lovely spot. Peaceful, beautiful view of the mountains, moonrise was sublime.

A

Ada

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Plateau Hame De Colquhoun

Great campsite with amazing view and atmosphere! I spent a wonderful evening here. Highly recommend. Melodie and Brent are very friendly, make sure to follow their directions and not google map.

Nikole

3 weeks ago

24 ft travel trailer

1 night at Perry Farms RV Park

Very nice little spot. It’s tucked in the back of a main road and very dark at night. We loved that part as the sky was so beautiful! This is a perfect stop over spot. The price is fair and having the Owl Restaurant down the street is a bonus. Definitely get the green chili cheese burger! The host was very responsive and nice. We will definitely be staying again sometime in the future.

Heather

November 2025

15 ft travel trailer

1 night at Plateau Hame De Colquhoun

We didn't get to stay long as we were in between long distance destinations but Melodie & Brent's place was awesome. And they were super patient with us with directions. Yes, as other's have said follow them to a T! We did find the distance on Twinning Rd (not marked that we could see but is literally two roads side by side) to be 2.8 rather than 2.6 miles and the Blue Moon container is so faded you can't see what it is until you are right up on it but other than that their directions worked perfectly. I'm neurospicy so specifics trip me up sometimes but they were patient with us and walked us through. The sunset was one of the best I've seen in a very long time and the sunrise was cotton candy gorgeous.

S

Susan

October 2025

20 ft travel trailer

1 night at Perry Farms RV Park

We enjoyed a night right near the Bosque del Apache. Vanetta was very friendly and helpful.

E

Eric

October 2025

Tent

With kids

5 nights at Plateau Hame De Colquhoun

Taking in the view from our campsite, was breathtaking. Melodie and Brent were beyond helpful and equally amazing hosts. Their land is gorgeous, natural and clean. Sunsets, sunrises and everything in between. Our van died on the way back to our campsite. Melodie and Brent saved us. We drove from Oklahoma to NM. She brought her friend along who is a mechanic and he fixed our van. Absolutely above and beyond. I look forward to staying with Melodie and Brent in the future. Plus, your compost toilet was a very unexpected luxury.

G

Gene

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Plateau Hame De Colquhoun

I got a real good night sleep here. The toilet was clean in the morning. The folks on site where very helpful... wait for their directions, don't trust GPS.

E

Elizabeth

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Perry Farms RV Park

Vanetta was so kind, leading us to her site from the nearby town. The skies were beautiful and we had a peaceful night.

Michael

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camp Darkmoon

Nice spot with expansive views. Outdoor privy. Roan and Ivy were very friendly and helpful. I would stay again.

C

Charlotte

September 2025

Tent

Group trip

2 nights at Camp Darkmoon

We had such an amazing stay at Campo Crudo! The sunsets were so beautiful and the star gazing was unlike anything else we’ve seen. Definitely recommend. Gets nice and chilly at night and hot in the day so plan accordingly:) If you plan to camp, keep in mind that the space is not huge. I would say a four person tent or less would fit ideally in the area they have.

B

Bram

September 2025

29 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Perry Farms RV Park

We had a great stay! Vannetta was a very good host!

Katrina

August 2025

Tent

1 night at Camp Darkmoon

Really cool spot. Peaceful. Perfect distance from ABQ which was our next destination. Thanks! We had a great nights sleep under the stars

Jasmine

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Darkmoon

Beautiful mountain views and Roan and Ivy were very kind and welcoming

Robert

August 2025

2 nights at ATV Loft Belen, NM Mountain view

The loft cabin was cozy and a good place to hide out from the wind and sun. The shower was nice since it was so hot while I wasthere.

Robert

August 2025

Tent

3 nights at Camp Darkmoon

Camp crudo is great and Roan and Ivy are awesome hosts. Beautiful wide open sage plains surrounding and very quiet! Will be back!

T

Tori

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Plateau Hame De Colquhoun

Detailed directions to their place (don't trust Google maps, trust the directions they give), friendly greeting and tour of the space- they have a composting toilet, music studio, and are working on a shower space. Flat camping spots for tent camping- very minimal light made the stars stand out which was awesome to see, even with the fuller moon the milky way was visible.